Netanyahu Appeals for U.S. Support Amid Controversy and Protests

Netanyahu Appeals for U.S. Support Amid Controversy and Protests

Washington, July 25, 2024 - In a fervent address to the U.S. Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza, calling for continued American support. The speech, delivered on July 24, 2024, was marked by controversy as it was boycotted by numerous top Democratic leaders and accompanied by significant protests outside the Capitol.

Netanyahu, speaking nine months into the conflict, vowed to achieve "total victory" against Hamas and other Iran-backed groups. He stressed the importance of the U.S.-Israel alliance, stating, "America and Israel must stand together. When we stand together, something really simple happens: we win, they lose." He also wore a yellow pin to symbolize solidarity with Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

The speech, however, was not without its contentious moments. Netanyahu harshly criticized American protesters, referring to those opposing the war as "useful idiots" for Israel's adversaries. This remark drew mixed reactions from the congressional audience, with some members of Congress applauding while others, particularly leading Democrats, remained silent.

Among the attendees were former hostages freed from Hamas and families of those still held captive. Security personnel escorted out several protesters from the gallery, who displayed slogans calling for a ceasefire and the release of all hostages. Notably, Representative Rashida Tlaib, a Democrat from Michigan, displayed a sign labeling Netanyahu a "war criminal," expressing her strong opposition to the ongoing conflict.

Netanyahu's visit to Washington comes at a time of rising criticism both in Israel and the United States. The speech aimed to reinforce his image as a respected statesman, despite growing divisions among Americans regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Tall steel barriers surrounded the Capitol as thousands of protesters gathered, some labeling Netanyahu a "war criminal" and demanding an end to the violence.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican lawmakers warmly received Netanyahu, with Johnson emphasizing the U.S.'s unwavering support for Israel. "Today and every day, America must stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel," Johnson declared, prompting a bipartisan standing ovation.

Netanyahu's address marks his fourth time speaking before a joint session of Congress, surpassing Winston Churchill's record. However, the event was notable for the absence of over 50 Democratic lawmakers, including political independent Bernie Sanders, and Vice President Kamala Harris, who cited a prior engagement for her absence.

The Israeli Prime Minister is set to meet with President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris on Thursday, followed by a meeting with former President Donald Trump on Friday. The visit underscores the complex and evolving dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations amidst an increasingly polarized political landscape.